Section Menu

Small Firms Consultation Database

The Small Firms Consultation Database is an opportunity for small firms to influence new regulations at an early stage, by providing feedback on any potential impact the changes may have on them. The BERR Enterprise Directorate, on policy officials' behalf, will contact owners and managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) who have agreed to be contacted and are listed in the database.

Small firms wishing to be consulted on regulatory issues affecting them can submit their details by downloading the attached Word document and sending it by email to the SBS Regulatory Policy Team at regulation@berr.gsi.gov.uk.

Small firms consultation database: registration form (116KB)

The Small Business Council in their 2002 annual report recommended that a database be created. This opportunity for firms to offer feedback on the impact policy proposals may have on them is a key element of government's commitment to 'think small first' when creating and implementing new regulations that affect business. The process is part of the Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA)/Small Firms Impact Test (SFIT).

Officials can invite SMEs to:

• take part in informal discussions in person or over the phone
• attend a focus group
• respond to targeted consultations about proposed new regulations

For more information on the SBS Small Firms Consultation Database, please contact the database manager:

Small Firms Consultation Database Manager
BERR Enterprise Directorate
Bay 189
1-19 Victoria Street
London SW1H 0ET

Telephone: 020 7215 5679
Email: Regulation@berr.gsi.gov.uk